Carnatic singer nominated for National Arts and Culture Award

DURBAN-born Indian classical musician, Kerolin Govender, has been recognised for his contributions to South Africa's rich cultural landscape.

The architect and musician has been nominated for an award in the outstanding musician category in the National Arts and Culture Awards.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture recently announced the official nominees for the National Arts and Culture Awards 2025, a prestigious event that honours excellence across South Africa’s creative landscape.

From literature and design to visual arts, heritage, and performance, the awards highlights artists and institutions whose contributions have shaped, preserved, and reimagined the country's cultural identity.

According to the department, this year’s nominees reflect the rich diversity, imagination, and resilience that define South Africa’s creative sector.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony to take place on August 22 in Sun City.

Govender is up against Wayne Bosch and Mphumelelo Dlamini.

Govender, 32, who is the creative director of Jivanmukta music, said he was deeply honoured and grateful to be nominated.

"It was a lovely surprise to be nominated. It is exciting and positive to get this recognition. I have had a positive response from my fellow peers. It is a struggle to get recognition because of challenges within the industry, but I am thrilled to be recognised on a national level.

"This has been a really good year with the most number of concerts of my own. Music has no boundaries. One can foster hope through music," said Govender.

Earlier this year Govender and his musical ensemble performed at Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s most revered spiritual gatherings in India, where millions from worldwide gather in devotion and prayer.

Govender started his musical journey at the age of 14 after being encouraged by his parents to pursue the arts.

He spent five years in Bangalore, India, where he completed his Bachelor of Architecture Degree at Visvesvaraya Technological University.

During his studies he also had the opportunity to further his musical aspirations under the direction of the legendary Dr L Subramaniam and Kavita Krishnamurthy at the Subramaniam Academy of Performing Arts (SAPA).

The Carnatic musician has over the years worked with many artists.

"I collaborate in Indo-African music. I try to bridge the gap between communities, especially with Indian and African.

"I sing a number of Miriam Makeba's songs, as well as a popular Indian music translated into isiZulu," he said.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE